Crowds of tourists flowed millions of dollars into the county in 2012.

2013 promises expanded events, new offerings and plans for more hotel rooms to house all those visitors, said Jackie Sibley, director of travel and tourism for the Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce.

The American Legion World Series broke Shelby’s own attendance record with more than 100,000 fans in 2012. Just a few months later, national Legion officials announced Shelby will be the Series’ permanent home at least through 2017. Tourism officials expect that will boost interest and attendance at this year's World Series.

A host of new events throughout the county joined the World Series in the past year, including the Clear Mountain View Music Festival in Casar, the Tar Heel Junior League state baseball tournament in Shelby and Cycle NC’s visit on a statewide biking tour.

Sibley said those events are expected to expand this year and be joined by a host of new entertainment. Here's a preview of what's to come in 2013, according to Sibley.

Is the county targeting any major tourism gains in 2013?

Sibley: Of course we anticipate the opening of the Earl Scruggs Center for 2013. The interest we have received about this center from all over the world has been very exciting. I believe that this attraction will bring more international tourists than we’ve ever seen. One local hotel is checking into a van service from the Charlotte airport, which will entice even more visitation from around the globe. Working with local musicians and venues for theatre and outdoor entertainment has been a project in the works this year. I expect an explosion next year for Cleveland County in the music world.

Are new hotel beds a big priority with the Legion World Series and other major events growing?

Sibley: This is a major priority in our county and our biggest necessity. Reports show that over $12 million is leaked every year to surrounding counties in visitor spending as a result of our lack of hotel rooms. We do anticipate at least 100 new rooms by the end of 2013.

Are new events headed to Shelby in 2013?

Sibley: The Shelby City Park will be hosting the Tar Heel League Girls Fast Pitch State Tournament July 18-21. This will be 36 teams for the weekend, with an expected economic impact for our area of around $800,000 or more. We are working to attract more group tours and conferences to the area as well. The film industry also looks promising for 2013. Several film projects have visited our area on repeat location sites. There is another cycling group from outside the county that is considering Cleveland County for an event in 2013 as a result of the successful event run with Cycle North Carolina. Of course we are always scouting new sporting events as well as tourism groups like the American Bus Association tour we are hosting on January 12. This is a group of people who operate motorcoach tours from all over the United States who are coming to tour our area to learn about what Cleveland County has to offer for groups.

What are other big tourism highlights for 2013?

* The Clear Mountain View Music Festival is expecting to double in attendance.

* The North Carolina Fall Livermush Festival is expected to grow on its 10,000-visitor attendance in 2012.

* The Don Gibson Theatre is expected to draw big names in 2013.

* The Farm Camping & Music expects to host various acts.

* The Joy Theater expects to host big names as part of a project to highlight Cleveland County as a mecca for music.